Camp Rabb and Fort Duncan, C.S.A.
Camp Rabb, 15 miles northeast, was one of 18 Confederate outposts placed a day's horseback ride apart, from Red River to Rio Grande, to prevent Indian attacks and Federal invasion. Named for captain in Frontier Regiment, Texas Cavalry; guarded ford on the Cotton Road, used as major Southern supply line. Fort Duncan, at this site, a former U.S. outpost, protected Civil War trade of cotton for vital supplies and arms. Fort served the counter threat from Federals in upriver El Paso and the Davis Mountains. (1964)
April 12, 1861: The Civil War begins with the Confederate attack on Fort Sumter, located in South Carolina's Charleston Harbor.
April 15, 1861: President Abraham Lincoln issues a call for 75,000 volunteers to serve in the Union Army to suppress the rebellion.
May 24, 1861: The first major land battle, known as the First Battle of Bull Run (or First Battle of Manassas), takes place in Virginia. It ends in Confederate victory.
September 17, 1862: The Battle of Antietam in Maryland becomes the bloodiest single-day battle in American history, with heavy casualties on both sides. The Union forces, commanded by General George McClellan, manage to halt Confederate General Robert E. Lee's advance into Union territory.
January 1, 1863: President Lincoln issues the Emancipation Proclamation, declaring that all slaves in Confederate-held territories are to be set free. However, the proclamation does not immediately free all slaves in the United States.
July 1-3, 1863: The Battle of Gettysburg in Pennsylvania takes place, resulting in a significant Union victory and inflicting heavy casualties on Confederate forces. It marks a turning point in the war.
November 19, 1863: President Lincoln delivers the Gettysburg Address, emphasizing the principles of liberty, equality, and the preservation of the Union.
April 9, 1865: General Robert E. Lee surrenders to Union General Ulysses S. Grant at Appomattox Court House in Virginia, effectively ending the Civil War.
April 14, 1865: President Lincoln is assassinated by John Wilkes Booth while attending a play at Ford's Theatre in Washington, D.C.
May 10, 1865: Confederate President Jefferson Davis is captured, signaling the collapse of the Confederate government.
December 6, 1865: The Thirteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution is ratified, officially abolishing slavery throughout the country.
While this timeline provides an overview of key events, it is important to note that the Civil War spanned over four years, from 1861 to 1865, and encompassed numerous battles, campaigns, and political developments that shaped the course of American history.
As one of the most visible programs of the Texas Historical Commission (THC), historical markers commemorate diverse topics in Texas history, including: the history and architecture of houses, commercial and public buildings, religious congregations, and military sites; events that changed the course of local and state history; and individuals who have made lasting contributions to the state, community organizations, and businesses.
Texas was once an independent country: After winning its independence from Mexico in 1836, Texas became its own country, known as the Republic of Texas. It existed as an independent nation for nine years before being annexed by the United States in 1845.
During the 19th century, Maverick County experienced significant growth with the arrival of Anglo-American settlers. The Texas Revolution of 1836 and the subsequent establishment of the Republic of Texas brought increased interest in the region. The need for protection against native tribes led to the construction of Fort Duncan in 1849, which quickly became an important military outpost and played a strategic role during the Mexican-American War (1846-1848).
The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century further fueled the county's growth and development. In 1881, the International-Great Northern Railroad reached Eagle Pass, the county seat, linking Maverick County to regional and national markets. This connectivity facilitated the expansion of agriculture, particularly cattle ranching, and boosted trade and commerce within the county.
In the 20th century, Maverick County experienced a series of economic and political shifts. The discovery of oil and gas reserves in the early 20th century brought increased industrial activity and wealth to the area. However, economic instability and political corruption also plagued the county throughout this period. Efforts to combat corruption and improve infrastructure and services have been ongoing, with varying degrees of success.
Today, Maverick County continues to evolve as a vibrant and diverse community. It is home to a mix of agriculture, ranching, and industrial activities, and its proximity to the U.S.-Mexico border plays a significant role in its economic and cultural identity. The county's history is celebrated through various heritage sites, including Fort Duncan Park and historical museums, allowing residents and visitors to explore its fascinating past.
Maverick County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Maverick County, Texas.
- 1870 - Maverick County is officially established as a county in Texas.
- 1871 - The county seat is established in Eagle Pass.
- 1872 - The railroad reaches Eagle Pass, bringing economic growth to the area.
- 1874 - Fort Duncan is established in Eagle Pass to protect the region during conflicts with Native American tribes.
- 1904 - The Maverick County Courthouse is built in Eagle Pass.
- 1933 - A major flood devastates Eagle Pass and causes significant damage in Maverick County.
- 1942 - The Eagle Pass Army Airfield is established and serves as a training base during World War II.
- 1989 - The Kickapoo Traditional Tribe of Texas opens a casino in Maverick County, providing an economic boost to the area.
- 2010 - The population of Maverick County reaches over 54,000.